Names That Are Variations

A bit stiff and formal for American use.

These days Albrecht is mostly seen as a surname, although it was historically a well-used first name in Germany. The surname was derived from the given name.

Lacks the vintage charm of the original Arabella, but with the love for all names Bella, it might appeal to some.

The fashion for elaborate girly-girl names, especially those that end with -ella or -ana, has put this distinctive Latin favorite into play.

If English is your native language, it might be best to go with Fleur.

Occasionally used as an alternative to Brandon or Brennan.

See THOMAS.

Both Kody and Cody — shining stars of the 90s — are in decline, although more people are choosing Cody than Kody.

This Danish variation of Celia / Cecilia is quite popular in Denmark in recent years.

Ysai is a less-known variation of the popular Isaiah.

Dayana is an Hispanic variant of Diana, notably belonging to Venezuelan actress, model and producer Dayana Mendoza. It also belongs to a South American orchid whose name derives from the surname of English botanist John Day. Its use can be partly attributed to the popularity of Diana, the Princess of Wales.

Form of Jasmine commonly used in Turkey.

Frequently cited as an example of cruel baby naming, à la Ima Hogg.

An underused Biblical name, probably because it's so tightly identified with the Queen of gospel singers, Mahalia Jackson. Other variations include Mahalah, Mahayla, Mahila, Mahilia, Mehalia, Mahali, and Mahalya.

This international variation was publicized by Olympic skater Ekaterina Gordeeva.

A regal sounding name with a cool, trendy twist, Kaizer is a variation of the title given to the now-defunct German emperor. Deriving from Caesar (with the perhaps less appealing, hairy meaning), the traditional Kaiser spelling is in the US Top 1000. Given to around 330 boys each year, it is more than twice as popular as Kaizer.

Brought into the mix by actress Tea (born Elizabeth Tea) Leoni, an attractive feminine option in the Mia/Lea mode. If you feel the need to lengthen it, you could go to Teadora or Teodora.

Fatima, a popular Muslim name, was a daughter of Muhammad and one of the four perfect women of the Quran. Fatoumata and its short form Fatou are West African variations.

New name in the pool of international names, added by lovely supermodel Alyona Osmanova.

In Slavic cultures, Saint Vitus is called Sveti Vid, making this a saintly appellation.